Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

What is the most effective method of controlling a hazard through physical removal?

1. Substitution

2. Elimination

3. Engineering controls

4. Administrative controls

The correct answer is: Elimination

The most effective method of controlling a hazard through physical removal is elimination. This approach involves completely removing the hazard from the workplace or environment, thus preventing any potential exposure or risk associated with it. By eliminating a hazard, you not only prevent incidents but also reduce the need for any further controls or mitigations that may be necessary if the hazard were still present. This strategy is considered the highest level of hazard control, as it addresses the risk at its source. Other methods, while useful, do not remove the hazard entirely. Substitution involves replacing a hazardous material or process with a less hazardous one, which does not eliminate the risk but rather mitigates it. Engineering controls focus on modifying equipment or systems to reduce exposure to hazards, but they still leave the hazard present. Administrative controls rely on changes in procedures, training, or policies to minimize risk, often requiring ongoing compliance and awareness, and therefore do not physically remove the hazard. Thus, elimination stands out as the most effective means of controlling hazards through physical removal.